It used to be that choosing a concrete basin meant committing to a certain kind of look (heavy, raw, and industrial). Designers loved the character, but the material came with trade-offs: weight, bulk, and limitations in form.
Not anymore. Thanks to glass fibre reinforced concrete, the rules have changed. Suddenly, concrete doesn’t just sit there - it floats, curves, cantilevers, and contours. Basins can be bold or barely-there, delicate or dramatic, without compromising on strength or structure.
At Sticks & Stone Co., we see this as more than a material upgrade, it’s a design shift. One that opens the door to new architectural possibilities, from tight powder rooms to sculptural concrete basins. And as GFRC uses fewer raw materials while achieving more refined results, it’s also a smart step forward for sustainability.
Want to explore how sculptural concrete could work in your space? Get in touch, we’d love to chat.
So what happens when concrete becomes lighter, leaner, and more expressive? Let’s explore our concrete basin shapes making the most of this evolution and what they unlock for your space.
Table of Contents
- Why GFRC Is the Perfect Medium for Sculptural Design
- Structural Expression in Form
- Surface as Statement
- Designing with Intention: Tips from the Workshop
- See It in Action
- Start Designing Your Own Piece
Why GFRC Is the Perfect Medium for Sculptural Design
When it comes to sculptural bathroom design, GFRC (Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete) offers the best of both form and function. It allows for incredibly fine detail (think crisp lines, smooth curves, and slim silhouettes) without sacrificing strength.
That’s because GFRC is engineered to be lightweight yet remarkably durable, making it ideal for everything from bold pedestal basins to refined wall features. With its seamless finishes and clean edges, GFRC opens up new creative possibilities for architects and designers.
We believe less can do more - GFRC uses fewer raw materials while delivering maximum impact. It’s why we see GFRC as the future of sustainable concrete design.
Structural Expression in Form
Industrial interior styling has always favoured raw, structural elements but now that concrete doesn’t mean clunky, what new sculptural possibilities are on the table?
Let’s explore how basin shapes influence space, function, and form.
Half Moon Basins
Half moon basins are ideal when you need to save space without sacrificing visual interest. Their curved profile softens the lines of a bathroom, making tight or narrow layouts feel more considered.
Unlike traditional concrete, GFRC allows for these delicate forms without compromising on strength - making it possible to install them on floating vanities or smaller benchtops without added weight concerns. The result is a basin that’s both space-efficient and structurally sound.
Rectangle Basins
Rectangular basins give a bathroom a definite sense of intention. The orderly lines are at home in minimal, architectural bathrooms, and can work as a zoning device or visual anchor on larger benchtops.
It’s also a highly practical shape. The open, generous surface area makes them comfortable to use without fear of splashing on the sides, and the flat edges are great for styling with taps/accessories – plus there’s no gap to struggle with either.
Concrete’s thermal mass means it also stays pleasantly cool to the touch (another silent, interior design win in cooler climes/households/bathroom times).
Round Basins
The circle is a soothing shape (literally, round things have no corners, no beginning or end). Round basins are the antidote to a bathroom that needs some softening in the visual mix. Whether you mount them above the counter, or tuck them in a few inches recessed, their simple, sculptural form becomes a natural focal point.
With GFRC concrete basins, that curve becomes more than just a styling exercise. The reinforced mix allows us to create a smooth, uniform curvature without any warping or excessive weight. The result is an exquisitely tactile surface to touch, and a shape that will age like a fine wine, not a passing trend.
Vessel Basins
This style of basins invites a different kind of interaction. Raised above the bench, they change how we engage with water - more like pouring into a bowl than leaning over a sink. That small shift adds a sense of ritual to the everyday.
Because GFRC concrete basins are so lightweight and strong, vessel basins can be shaped with fine edges and subtle curves that wouldn’t be possible with traditional concrete. The result is something that feels handcrafted and intentional (like a sculptural object rather than just a functional fixture). It’s a way to make the basin the centrepiece, without overpowering the space around it.
Pedestal Basins
Beauty can be functional, and that is exactly the case with pedestal basins. A pedestal basin is more than a surface to wash up. It gives form and weight to the room. A full pedestal basin creates a sculptural presence, while a half pedestal basin provides simple, discreet cover for any exposed plumbing.
One benefit of using GFRC for this fixture is that it’s heavy enough to be stable without the need for overly bulky support brackets or feet, but it’s still light enough to achieve a very thin, contemporary profile.
A modern, minimalist interpretation of the timeless silhouette, balancing art and utility. A strong, distinctive design moment that doesn’t compete.
Surface as Statement
There’s something powerful about a surface that doesn’t hide what it’s made of. Whether honed smooth or left raw and tactile, the finish becomes part of the story, revealing the hand of the maker and the integrity of the material. It’s one of the benefits of concrete that’s often overlooked: its ability to be both strong and soulful.
Let’s take a closer look at what that makes possible.
Polished Concrete
For when you want your basin to look crisp, clean and stay that way. A polished finish brings out the natural depth of concrete, adding light and subtle shine to your space.
But it’s not just for looks - polished concrete basins are less porous, which means fewer stains and easier upkeep. It's a finish that feels as good as it looks, especially in a space where function matters as much as form.
Ribbed Concrete
If you’re after something with texture but still want to keep things minimal, ribbed concrete basins strike a really nice balance. The lines give the surface a bit of movement - they catch the light in a way that adds interest without shouting for attention. It’s also surprisingly practical.
That subtle texture gives you a bit more grip, which makes sense in a space like a bathroom where water’s always part of the picture. It’s one of those finishes that feels considered, both in look and in use.
Rugged Concrete
If you like your spaces with a bit of grit (something that feels grounded and real) a rugged concrete basin is worth a look. It’s got a raw, earthy texture that adds instant character, especially in bathrooms where everything else might be sleek or polished.
This finish doesn’t mind a bit of wear and tear either; in fact, it hides it well. That makes it a great option for busy households or anyone who wants a surface that ages with a bit of dignity. It’s less about perfection, more about personality.
Textured Concrete
Textured concrete basins embrace those little imperfections, turning them into features that add personality and warmth to your bathroom. Instead of harsh reflections, these finishes catch the light softly, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere that feels natural and lived-in. It’s the kind of detail that makes a space feel thoughtful and authentic, not just polished.
Designing with Intention: Tips from the Workshop
Creating a bathroom that feels both personal and polished comes down to thoughtful choices (especially when it comes to your basin). Pairing the right shape with a complementary texture can completely change how a space feels.
It’s also important to think about how your finishes will age. Concrete basins, when made well, only get better over time, but knowing how to care for concrete basins can make all the difference in keeping them looking their best. Choosing materials and finishes that wear gracefully means your basin becomes a timeless piece, setting the tone for the whole room – balancing beauty with everyday practicality.
Explore our Gallery of Beautiful GFRC Basins
Sometimes the best way to understand a design is to see it in a real space. Whether you’re dreaming up a clean, minimalist bathroom or planning something bold and sculptural, our gallery is packed with ideas that bring these shapes and finishes to life.
Take a look and discover our GFRC concrete basins collection; your perfect basin could be waiting there.
Start Designing Your Own GFRC Basins, Benchtops, & More
Got a unique idea you want to bring to life? We’re here to help. Whether you’re a homeowner, architect, or designer, we love collaborating to turn sculptural concepts into beautiful, functional basins using GFRC.
Reach out, and let’s create something that’s truly yours.